Kevin Fessett, head coach of the Danvers High School hockey team for the past three seasons, confirmed Wednesday that he is stepping down from his position.
Fessett, 41, led the Falcons to three straight playoff appearances during his time on the bench with a career record of 28 wins, 27 losses and 10 ties. Danvers won two postseason games and reached the Division 3 state quarterfinals in its inaugural season in 2021-22.
“It was a great job with great administrative support, great parents and most importantly, great kids,” Fessett said. “I feel so fortunate to have had such an amazing opportunity and had such a great three years.”
Fessett and his wife, Amy, have four children, ages 8 to 1. He's also started his own program, Accelerate Fitness and Speed Training, where he trains athletes, which keeps him busy.
“I have a lot to do these days, which is fun,” said Fessett, who also teaches at Melrose High School, “but my time demands are increasing. It's not fair to the players and their parents that I can't give my all to the hockey program.”
Bill Sheehan and Shane Swanton were assistants under Fessett with the Falcons, who graduated seven seniors last year but have a number of promising young players and newcomers with varsity aspirations.
A native of upstate New York, Fessett served as the head football coach at Ipswich High School for six seasons from 2016-2021, leading the school to an undefeated record of 37-24 in its final season and three Cape Ann League championships or co-champions. Prior to his time at Danvers, Fessett also coached junior varsity hockey at Beverly High School for several seasons.
Fessett has coached the Danvers High School varsity football team under head coach Ryan Nolan for the past few seasons and hopes to return to the role this fall.
